Engine fin cleaning ?

[Mueller]

I ride on a dusty road and the area inbetween the cooling fins gets quite grungy. I tried cleaning this area with a rag wrapped around a popsicle stick and it does a poor job and is really time consuming. What do you use to clean this area which might be a better solution to what I am using?

Thanks
Mueller

[seVer916]

it depends on how dedicated you are.

the best way to ensure clean fins is probably a toothbrush.

but a faster way would probably be like an automotive brush or something to that effect. basically, something with semi-soft bristles that are long enough, and will not only scrub off the crap, but also not scratch the finish.

[gruss]

power wash that sucker....it isnt gonna hurt it....just avoid the seal areas, and wheel bearing surfaces...IMHO

[Bonsai]

Originally Posted by Mueller

I ride on a dusty road and the area inbetween the cooling fins gets quite grungy. I tried cleaning this area with a rag wrapped around a popsicle stick and it does a poor job and is really time consuming. What do you use to clean this area which might be a better solution to what I am using?

Thanks
Mueller

Living on a dirt/pothole/gravel/fines road I know what you're talking about. Especially in the dry times.

Anyway....my wife and I use all the methods you can think of and the short version is nothing cleans them better than time. It's a pain in the ass....

A good blast from a water hose and a soft long bristle brush isn't bad.

Best advice I have is to stay on top of it and it doesn't take as long.



PS Sucks cleaning your bike and riding 1/2 mile to the paved road and it's covered in dust.

[Dave63]

Originally Posted by gruss

power wash that sucker....

Won't remove it....AND too much pressure. If you have polished fins, you risk catching the edge of the powdercoating and blowing some of that off, as well.

Go to your local dollar store. Buy a $1.00 poly-based feather duster. They're multi-colored.... It's actually called a "Static Duster".

Dip it in warm water/soap and run it between the fins. Cleans it right out......

Hang it up to dry and wa-la. I've got one 3 years old.

[Sportster883Bob]

i use a mother's power ball. it hooks onto a drill. it works great.

[Bonsai]

Originally Posted by Dave63

Won't remove it....AND too much pressure. If you have polished fins, you risk catching the edge of the powdercoating and blowing some of that off, as well.

Go to your local dollar store. Buy a $1.00 poly-based feather duster. They're multi-colored.... It's actually called a "Static Duster".

Dip it in warm water/soap and run it between the fins. Cleans it right out......

Hang it up to dry and wa-la. I've got one 3 years old.

Shit!


That's a damn good idea Dave.

[IASporty]

Originally Posted by Bonsai

Shit!


That's a damn good idea Dave.

Just make sure the wife doesn't use it to dust the coffee table after you've used it.

[vlade]

Yea the feather duster works, Wifes still lookin for hers she wouldnt wanta see it now. Another product i been using is S100 engine brightener turns it black again after they take on that brownish grayish patina

[zetaseven]

I use eagle wheel cleaner, then a wheel brush. looks like new. My motor is spotless.